Engineered hardwood flooring may be perfect for you
For years, people thought only in terms of solid wood floors, but another version of hardwood took a significant share of the wood flooring industry. Engineered wood flooring, with the same beautiful undertones, raised grains, knots, and swirls, also has a more practical side. That aspect appeals to some people who place a high value on the more functional capabilities.
What is engineered hardwood?
This is a layered construction and, at the top, is your species-of-choice. That can be anything from hickory to oak and maple to walnut and cherry. Called the veneer layer, this is what gives that rich, warm, elegant look to your home. Underneath and out of sight are layers composed of genuine wood and a little resin. They are placed in a crosswise position, giving the floor stability and a better ability to handle water.
These floors can be sanded up to five times, depending on thickness, and they will last for decades. The difference, however, is that they don’t shrink or contract to adjust to the weather, so no acclimation is necessary. They can also be placed in some higher-than-normal moisture areas where solid cannot go.
Planks are a little wider and shorter, but manufacturers are working on adding more sizes. While solid wood can be refinished either at the factory or on-site, engineered is almost always pre-finished. Many find that advantage a plus since they know what they will be getting to begin the coordination process, samples in hand, while the floors are being prepared.
These floors can be sanded up to five times, depending on thickness, and they will last for decades. The difference, however, is that they don’t shrink or contract to adjust to the weather, so no acclimation is necessary. They can also be placed in some higher-than-normal moisture areas where solid cannot go.
Planks are a little wider and shorter, but manufacturers are working on adding more sizes. While solid wood can be refinished either at the factory or on-site, engineered is almost always pre-finished. Many find that advantage a plus since they know what they will be getting to begin the coordination process, samples in hand, while the floors are being prepared.
Request an estimate
Installation can be different with engineered
While solid wood is the traditional tongue and groove, engineered offers an additional technique that may result in a more budget-friendly installation. Engineered floors can be nailed or glued but can also become the floating floor. This fast and uncomplicated technique refers to the pieces clicking together, mat, then hovering over the subfloor with no nails or glue needed. Since moisture isn’t as much of an issue for these floors, it's OK to place over a concrete subfloor, and no moisture readings are needed during the process, as is the case with solid wood. An underlayment may be recommended for additional stability.
Your hardwood flooring experts in Valdosta
To learn more about engineered hardwood flooring, solid or any of our other products, visit the Traditions Flooring showroom in Valdosta, GA. We work with homeowners in or near Valdosta, GA, Quitman, GA, Clyattville, GA, Hahira, GA, Lake Park, GA, Adel, GA, Nashville, GA, Moultrie, GA, Tifton, GA || Madison, FL. We have decades of experience helping people select the right flooring for their lifestyle and budget. We are excited to give you a free engineered hardwood flooring quote for your project.
